Guide to Koh Lan
Virtual tour of Ko Lan
Every morning, Koh Lan bursts with life as beach enthusiasts flock to its shores. Visitors come not only from local hotels but also by boat and ferry from nearby Pattaya to relish the pristine sea, well-maintained coastline, and peaceful ambiance. Despite its modest size – approximately 4.5 km long and 2.5 km wide – the coral island, as Ko Lan translates, accommodates numerous beachgoers and offers local attractions.
The Naban Buddhist temple, situated near the pier, holds significance as a cultural landmark. It features a captivating golden Buddha statue, monk residences, and a uniquely designed bell tower. Not far from Tawaen Beach, several original Buddha statues grace the hill, delighting art enthusiasts. Nature lovers can indulge in the scenic viewpoints at Samae and Tarai beaches.
The local solar energy station also garners attention, primarily for its distinctive appearance. Thanks to its excellent climate, ecological charm, picturesque landscapes, and cultural offerings, Ko Lan stands out as a top-notch resort destination, especially from June to October.
Photos of Koh Lan
Tours to Koh Lan
Ko Lan offers a perfect opportunity to unwind on its pristine white-sand beaches, basking in the gentle sun and enjoying the crystal-clear sea and exotic natural beauty. It's a paradise that never fails to delight tourists from Europe seeking a break from gloomy weather.
This coral island boasts several advantages, including a staff proficient in English and Russian, making communication easy. Activities like diving, snorkeling, and hiking are highly recommended in the vicinity.
Moreover, Ko Lan experiences minimal rainy seasons, with moderate rainfall, making it an ideal vacation spot from June to November.
Standard package tours to Ko Lan typically include flights to Bangkok, hotel transfers, accommodations, meals, and medical insurance. Prices from agencies start at $1,100 USD per adult during the low season and $2,100 USD for two people. In high season, expect a 5-15% increase in costs.
While on Ko Lan, make the most of its convenient location by visiting nearby Pattaya and Bangkok, as this coral island is the closest among the resorts to these vibrant cities.
Interesting places in Koh Lan
Of course, the top of the list of Koh Lan's attractions is the beaches. Despite the island's modest size, you'll find both bustling stretches of coastline and wild beaches. But Ko Lan also boasts temples, viewpoints, and Buddha statues. Plus, the coral island is a short drive from Pattaya and Bangkok!
Flight ticket prices
Ko Lan is a very small island, and there is no airport on its territory. The nearest airport is in Pattaya, but it mainly serves domestic flights and charter planes. Most tourists choose Bangkok airports (Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang), located three hours away from the island. The easiest way to get there is by bus or taxi to Pattaya, followed by a ferry or speedboat to Ko Lan.
A flight from Europe to Bangkok takes 11 to 14 hours, depending on layovers. Direct flights are available from Munich, Paris, and Frankfurt, while travelers from Krakow, Prague, Warsaw, or Budapest will need at least one stop. Airlines serving this route include Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Finnair, and Thai Airways. Ticket prices range from 550–700 EUR in the off-season to 1000–1200 EUR in the peak season (winter).
The best hotels in Koh Lan
Koh Lahn has budget accommodations as well as 2,3,4 star hotels. Modest apartments (Poopreaw Koh Larn, Teleysea Resort Kohlarn, Blue sky Koh larn Resort, Chill Days @ Koh Larn, Dharakiri) start at 22 USD per night for two adults in low season.
At 3-star hotels (Xanadu Beach Resort, Lareena Resort Koh Larn Pattaya, Suntosa Resort) a double room will cost from 30 USD per night in low season.
4-star hotels (Kohlarn Resort, Sealey Resort) offer a similar room from 33 USD per night in low season.
In high season, each of the above prices is 5-25% higher.
Travel budget
Ko Lan remains popular throughout the year, with varying levels of crowd depending on the season. The high season in December and the low season in July experience a moderate difference in prices, ranging from 5 to 25% for various goods and services.
Here's a rough estimate for an eight-day, seven-night vacation, including the following costs:
- Flight to and from Bangkok airport (transfers from Bangkok starting at $5 USD).
- 3-star hotel accommodation with breakfast included. Lunch and dinner at restaurants.
- Tuk-tuk transportation.
- Cultural activities, such as a visit to a Thai temple.
- Please note that actual costs may vary based on your preferences and choices during your trip.
| The budget for a trip to Koh Lan | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight | from 835 USD | Accommodation | from 30 USD |
| Average check in a restaurant | from 6 USD | Excursion | from 30 USD |
| Transportation fare | from 3 USD | ||
| Total : from 1200 USD for 1 person for 7 days of rest | |||
Ko Lan: tips for tourists
Visa to Koh Lan
Citizens of most European Union countries do not need a visa for short-term tourist trips to Thailand. They can stay in the country for up to 30 days without a visa if they arrive by air and up to 15 days if they enter by land. However, the rules are subject to change, so it's best to check the latest information before you travel.
Airport
The nearest airport is U-Tapao (Pattaya), 11km from Ko Lan. But the cost of a flight to the Thai capital, together with the road, is cheaper than a flight to Pattaya. The distance from Bangkok airports is 97 km (Suvarnabhumi) and 87 km (Don Muang).
Transfer
To reach Ko Lan from Bangkok airports, you have to transfer via Pattaya. You can get there by bus (from 124 THB) or minibus (from 250 THB). In Pattaya it is worth taking the ferry (from 30 THB).
Car rental
Renting a car in Thailand is allowed for people over 21 years of age. You also need to have an international driver's license, driving experience of 1 year or more, knowledge of English and/or Thai language. The price of car rental starts from 28 USD per day.
Transportation
Taxis (from 100 THB to 400 THB), tuk-tuks (100 to 200 THB) or motorcycles (100 to 300 THB) are available to get around Ko Lan. If desired, the small island can be walked around.
Safety
Ko Lana is always crowded, so it's a good idea to keep a close eye on personal belongings on beaches and other public places. Valuables and large sums of money are best left in the hotel safe.